his own exertions, without the adventitious aids of fortune and of patronage, he placed himself early in life among the
foremost men of this land, superior to many in some respects--inferior to none.

He died in the service of his country, in Washington City, on the 31st March, 1850, leaving a glorious fame and a
spotless reputation, and only regretting that he was no longer able to labor in assuring tranquility to the State, and
permanent protection to our institutions.

He had for sometime been conscious of his approaching end. He preserved his faculties and his composure to the last.
His death was marked by those characteristics of simplicity and unostentatious dignity which distinguished his life.
Amidst a scene of heart-rending grief of his beloved family and friends, who watched his death-bed with the intense
anxiety of devoted affection, he closed his earthly career with the calmness and resignation of a christian.

He has left behind him a great heritage to his children--a great example to his country--a name renowned in her annals
and in the history of free institutions.